MALVERN Hills is one of the most expensive places to live for first-time buyers in Worcestershire.
Figures released by the National Housing Federation show the district has the second highest average house price of £145,000 — £10,000 less than Bromsgrove.
And despite expensive houses, prices are still more than ten times the average wages for first-time buyers with residents’ lowest average income totalling just £11,688.
The district also has one of the largest housing shortfalls in the county with 171 homes needed in 2014. Only 110 of the required 281 were constructed.
Harriett Baldwin, MP for West Worcestershire, said: “This annual survey confirms what we all know, that Malvern Hills is a highly desirable place to live and that it is difficult for people to get on the housing ladder.
“Government schemes like ‘Help to Buy’ have enabled some local people to make the first steps into property ownership and that is clearly a good thing. Mortgage rates are low and later this year the new Help to Buy ISA will be available.”
She added the need for the planning inspector to speed up the approval of the South Worcestershire Development Plan could not be more important, as it would allow about the allocated sites for house builders to construct more homes and help fill the high demand for new homes across the county.
Melanie Baker, portfolio holder for planning and housing on Malvern Hills District Council, added: “As a council we are sometimes criticised for allowing building on the district’s open spaces but what these figures show is we need more homes for families within the district.
“That of course has to be balanced with the need to ensure there is appropriate infrastructure in place to support increased development, against our desire to protect the district’s character and natural environment.
“Increasing housing supply and affordability is vital for the future of the district as otherwise we risk losing our young people, who will move away in search of cheaper properties.
“This then makes it difficult for our businesses, schools and hospitals to attract the skilled workers they need.
“We are committed to working with our partners to fulfil our role in tackling this issue.”
